Photographer Spotlight: Keyarah
Name/Nombre: Keyarah (She/her/hers)
Location/Ubicación: Harlem, NY
Walks Attended/Caminatas atendidos: 1
Occupation/Ocupación: College Student at City College of New York
How long have you been a photographer?
I was introduced to film photography when I was a sophomore in high school (Spring 2012) I took a long hiatus but started to take it serious during the Summer of 2017.
What got you into it?
When I took Black & White Photography class in college, I was mostly practicing with Ilford HP5 Plus. And I loved how gritty the shots were. I loved using that film when I do street photography. It gives off a nostalgic look. Also being the dark room developing and making photographs is very therapeutic to me.
What did you like about the photowalk you attended?
Brooklyn Bay Ridge 2022; it was my first walk and it very fun (also freezing that day loll) The group was super nice, super inviting and helping.
I want to make it a mission to go the upcoming walks this summer. *fingers crossed*
What are your favorite types of photography?
I love mostly street photography and any type of portraits in Black and White. I just love the grittiness and it's more authentic to me, personally.
What are some of your favorite projects?
So far, I have not worked on any projects. Normally, I generate a lot of ideas, but I can be too scary to execute. This is a bad habit of mine and want to step out my comfort zone and just go for it.
Do you have a favorite camera?
For film, I used my trustee Canon A-1 and for digital I use my Canon Rebel T-7. And my last resort is my iPhone 11 if I don't have either of my cameras.
What do you do outside of photography?
I work in a Domestic Violence shelter. I've been at my job for 2 years and yet it can be emotionally overwhelming, but very rewarding to gain the trust of the young mothers and their children. And for school, I go to City College of New York. I am pursuing a BA in Studio Arts with a Concentration in Photography
Do you have a philosophy you live by that you take into your photography?
My only philosophy when it comes to my photography is no matter what picture I take, COMPOSITION IS EVERYTHING. I feel like a photograph can be a hit or miss depending on the composition and how it is framed in anyone's eyes.
What ethical considerations do you take into account when photographing people or sensitive subjects?
The only boundary I have is not photographing the homeless. Even if I am given the permission, I honestly can not do it.
What is your favorite part about Uptown?
My favorite part about being Harlem is the community. Any time there is a event, everyone shows up and show out and seeing all walks of life coming together to have fun is beautiful thing to see.
